How To Open Your
my Social Security Account in 5 Steps

The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers programs that support millions of Americans, including retirement, disability and healthcare benefits. Whether you're applying for benefits, approaching retirement age or planning for the future, keeping track of your Social Security information is an important part of financial planning. One way to do this is with a my Social Security account. Here's how to create one.

1. Go to SSA.gov/myaccount

Visit the SSA's website and select the “Create an Account" option to begin.

2. Log in to your login.gov or ID.me account if you have one

Previously, you could create a my Social Security account with a username and password. Now you must use a Login.gov or ID.me account to access your my Social Security account.

If you already have one of these accounts, you can sign in and agree to the terms and conditions to create and access your new my Social Security account.

3. Otherwise, create a Login.gov or ID.me account

If you don't have either type of account, you'll need to create one to get started.

Login.gov is a federal service that allows you to securely access accounts and services from multiple government agencies. ID.me is a private service that government agencies have approved for identity verification and authentication.

With either service, you'll choose a username and password for your account. You may also need to select an additional authentication method, such as an authentication app, text message, fingerprint, face unlock or security key.

4. Verify your identity

The next step is to verify your identity, which generally involves:

• Uploading a picture of a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or state ID card
• Taking and uploading a selfie using your cellphone

If you can't do this with your phone, you may also be able to bring your identity document to a participating post office to verify your identity in person.

5. Create and set up your account

Once your Login.gov or ID.me account is ready, you can use it to set up your my Social Security account by reviewing and agreeing to the terms and conditions. You may also need to enter an activation code that you received by mail, text or automated voice call if you used Login.gov.

You won't need to verify your identity again to access your my Social Security account. But you will need to log in to your Login.gov or ID.me account, and you may need to authenticate yourself again using the authentication method you chose.

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What Is a my Social Security Account?

A my Social Security account is an online account that you can use to apply for and manage Social Security benefits, update your preferences and plan for the future.

To qualify for a my Social Security account, you must:

• Be 18 or older
• Have a Social Security number (SSN)
• Have an email address

Once you create an account, you can use it to check your earnings history, estimate future benefits and update preferences, such as how you receive new notifications.

What Can You Do With Your my Social Security Account?

Once you're set up, you can log in to your account to learn more about your Social Security benefits and change your preferences.

For example, you can:

• Request a new Social Security card (not a new number).
• Upload documents that the SSA requests.
• Download a benefit verification letter proving that you are, or are not, receiving benefits.
• Choose between mailed or emailed notifications and statements.
• Select whether you want to receive alerts about new messages by email or text.

The additional features will vary depending on whether you're receiving Social Security benefits or not.

If you receive Social Security benefits

You can use your my Social Security account to:

• Review your benefits information.
• Set up or update your direct deposit account information.
• Request replacement tax documents that you need to prepare your tax return.
• Get a benefit verification letter to show what benefits you receive.
• Request a new Medicare card.
• Report wages if you're receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

If you don't receive Social Security benefits

Even if you aren't currently receiving benefits, you may want an online account to:

• Apply for benefits and check the status of your application or appeal.
• Download your Social Security Statement.
• Get personalized estimates for your benefits, including retirement, disability and spousal benefits.
• See how changes to your income or retirement age will impact your monthly benefits.

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Why Monitoring Your Social Security Account Is Important

Creating and monitoring your my Social Security account can be a relatively easy way to ensure your wages are correctly reported to the SSA, plan for retirement, check your benefits and update your preferences.

Regularly reviewing your account can also help you spot suspicious activity, such as unusual earnings or benefits. These could be signs that you're a victim of identity theft, and you'll want to take steps to correct these errors.

READ MORE: How To Protect Yourself From AI Fraud and Scams in Banking

Common Questions and Misconceptions

Is a Social Security account the same as a retirement savings account?

A Social Security account is not the same as a 401(k), IRA or other type of retirement account. Social Security retirement benefits can help eligible people cover living expenses during retirement. But the SSA also administers other types of benefits, such as SSI and SSDI benefits.

Can immigrants or noncitizens have Social Security accounts?

Yes, immigrants and noncitizens who are authorized to work in the U.S. can receive a Social Security number and have a Social Security account. These residents pay into the Social Security system when they're employed, and lawfully admitted noncitizens are also eligible for some Social Security benefits.

What happens if there are errors in your Social Security record?

If you spot errors in your record, gather evidence of the error and contact the SSA by phone, by mail, online or in person. For example, if your record is missing earnings, you could submit previous tax forms or pay stubs with the correct amount as proof.

How can I keep my Social Security account safe?

Use a strong password that you don't use with any other websites to help keep your account safe. Also, opt for one of the safer identity authentication methods, such as fingerprint or face unlock, instead of receiving codes by email or text. The SSA also shares some tips on detecting and avoiding phishing scams that could put your account at risk.

Set Up Your Account Today

Setting up and monitoring your my Social Security account can help you review your record, update your information, apply for benefits and protect against identity theft. It's free and easy to get started, and a helpful tool whether you're currently receiving benefits or planning for the future.

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